Nebraska Cornhuskers Football: What Others Think Of Bo Pelini

Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

Bo Pelini is a figure that polarizes Husker Nation. The Nebraska Cornhuskers coach is entering his sixth year, and debates take place daily on if he is the right man for the job.

I asked several writers from around the nation to give their opinions on  various topics involving Nebraska football. In the seventh and final installment of this feature I asked what they think of Bo Pelini.

LawlessRepublic.com editor Mitch Harper:

Pelini is a no nonsense kind of coach, which I think is perfect for The Huskers.

I remember when I became a fan of Pelini. It was before the 2009 season opener against Florida Atlantic. ESPNU had Pelini on as part of their season preview show with all FBS coaches. Lowell Galindo asked Pelini about FAU burning The Nebraska “N” in the Owls’ weekly pep rally. Pelini simply answered, “I don’t care what fires are being burned. This game is going to be won between the lines.” I thought it was really funny because of how serious he was when he said it.

I don’t think people realize Pelini’s success since taking over in 2008. Three of the last four years he has won ten games. I wouldn’t be surprised if we see Pelini and The Huskers in some BCS Bowls in the near future.

One thing you can always expect from Bo Pelini is a no nonsense approach. He is known for his candor, and just like Mitch, I appreciate it. Sure, you get coach speak from him, just like every other coach in the nation. It still beats the type of coach who makes excuses and says things for the sake of popularity.

Chris Flanagan of HookEmHeadlines.com:

I think Bo Pelini is the right coach for the Huskers. He might not have the talent on defense to compete with the big boys, but there is nothing wrong with 9-10 win seasons at a place like Nebraska.

Bo Pelini is supposed to be a defensive guru, something that we have not seen since Ndamukong Sue departed for the NFL. Bo needs to get things right defensively, and soon.

Again, 9-10 win seasons are a topic of conversation. In today’s world of college football, ten wins is a big deal.

SoaringToGlory.com editor Joe Micik:

He’s a solid coach and I think his record during his time in Lincoln speaks for itself.  Nebraska has finished first or tied for first in their division four of his first five years, which shows me consistency.  I can’t say I think the guy is doing a bad job.  Just the opposite, in fact.

Steve Pesek of GoldAndGopher.com:

It would be foolish to walk away from Bo Pelini and his coaching staff. With so much movement amongst college football coaches, it is an advantage for schools to have a tenured coach and allow them to ride the waves annually. The ever changing landscape of college football also makes it difficult to predict how each individual season will play out, and having a coach that has been within the program for an extended period of time is very impressive. Unless a catastrophic meltdown takes place, Pelini and his staff should be able to keep Nebraska towards the top of the Big Ten.